Moorea

The Magical Island

Believed to have inspired the mythical Bali Hai from James Michener's Tales of the South Pacific, Moorea is one of the most scenically striking islands in French Polynesia. Despite her immaculate beauty, she is far from unapproachable. Possessing a relaxed vibe and welcoming spirit, Moorea is just as warm and inviting as the Tahitians lucky enough to call this island home.

The Locale

Located only ten nautical miles from Tahiti, Moorea is easily accessible by ferry or plane from Papeete. This proximity, coupled with the island's receptive and neighborly nature, makes Moorea a favorite destination for couples, families and even locals. Still, Moorea has managed to maintain its small island feel despite this popularity and the presence of a few internationally branded resorts.

The Allure

The attraction toward Moorea comes as no surprise; the island is a geographical marvel. Eight voluminous mountain peaks rise from its translucent lagoon, creating a distinctive and rugged silhouette visible from the western coast of Tahiti. Splitting the northern shore are two symmetrical bays: Cook's (Paopao) and Opunohu Bay. The island is roughly shaped like a heart from overhead; and in the theme of love and romance, Moorea is one of the top honeymoon destinations in Tahiti—second only to Bora Bora.

Recreation

This unique landscape gives Moorea a reputation for being one of the best islands for adventure and activity—both on land and on the water. This means that, newlyweds aside, a Moorea vacation is ideal for families, too. Many resorts on the island offer kids programs and amenities, free meals and fun activities suited for children of all ages.

Popular lagoon excursions include snorkeling, paddle boarding, cruising and fishing. During mating season, August to October, we highly recommend a whale watching tour with resident marine biologist Dr. Michael Poole. Another incredible experience is an encounter at the Moorea Dolphin Center, the only natural refuge where you can swim and play with dolphins. For complete exhilaration, try parasailing or skydiving and enjoy unforgettable panoramic views of the island.

On land, you can discover quaint villages and beaches along the waterfront, or abundant pineapple plantations at the interior. It's very easy to rent a car and drive or even bike around the island in a day. You can also explore the scenic hillsides by Jeep, ATV or on foot. There are a variety of hiking trails suitable for everyone from the casual walker to the high intensity hiker. Regardless of how you prefer to get there, plan to see the view from Belvedere Lookout.

Other activities include golfing at the Moorea Green Pearl Golf Course, the only course in French Polynesia next to the Olivier Bréaud Golf Course in Tahiti; or visiting Moorea's Tiki Village for a traditional feast and authentic Polynesian dance show.

Accommodation

Moorea resorts offer a diverse selection of overwater bungalows and garden villas. These four- and five-star accommodations include everything from the world-class Hilton, InterContinental, and Sofitel, to the more boutique Moorea Pearl. There are also a few small hotels and private guesthouses known as pensions available throughout the island.

Final Impression

Moorea is the pride and joy of French Polynesia. She may be considered Tahiti's little sister, but she steals the spotlight every time. The island is a true reflection of the laidback Tahitian lifestyle and the warm, welcoming character of French Polynesia and its people.

The Hilton Moorea Lagoon Resort & Spa is centrally located on a sandy beach between Moorea's two iconic bays. This northern placement creates the perfect setting to admire both the sunrise to the east and the sunset to the west from the comfort...

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Tucked between the mountains and the lagoon on the northwest side of the island, the InterContinental Moorea Resort & Spa is bordered by a beautiful white sand beach and blends seamlessly with its natural surroundings. Each cheerful and spacious garden...

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The Sofitel Moorea Ia Ora Resort enjoys a secluded waterfront setting on one of the island's best white sand beaches. Located on the eastern side of Moorea, closest to the airport and ferry dock, this hotel is also the most convenient. Each spacious...

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The charming Moorea Pearl Resort & Spa maintains a boutique hotel feel and exudes the warm, welcoming ambiance characteristic of French Polynesia. Located on the northeast coast, this resort is only ten minutes from the airport and fifteen minutes...

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Les Tipaniers is a charming hotel located at Hauru Point on the scenic northwest coast of Moorea. It offers convenient access to the beach and Le Petit Village, a popular local shopping center with a variety of island boutiques perfect for purchasing...

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Located on the northwest corner of Moorea, Hotel Hibiscus is surrounded by a lush coconut grove and a beautiful white sand beach. Although slightly farther from the airport and ferry dock than the other resorts on the island, it provides a nice budget...

Visit Tiki Village and experience a spectacular Polynesian dance show. Show on Tuesday, Wednesday, and Friday from July 1st - November 30th and Tuesday and Friday from December 1st - June 30th. (does not include dinner)...

Enjoy a Polynesian lunch at the Moorea Beach Café, a cafe restaurant overlooking Moorea's beautiful lagoon. Open everyday from 11:30am to 10pm, it is a unique experience to visit the restaurant for lunch, early dinner during the sunset, or...

Learn how to stand up paddle on the calm, clear waters of Moorea. You`ll glide through an area of the lagoon that is inaccessible by boat while discovering sharks, stingrays and schools of multicolored fish. This excursion was specially designed for all...

Open up on the open road and go for a cross-island adventure in your own roadster! You will feel the wind in your hair and the sun on your face as you discover Moorea’s scenic coasts at your leisure, with your choice of a 4, 8 or 24 hour rental....

Discover the marine life in Moorea without any prior dive experience. You`ll walk the ocean floor wearing an air-supplied helmet and be greeted by a variety of colorful fish and friendly stingrays. Your qualified dive instructor will assist you with the...

Encounter wild dolphins and whales on an informative eco-tour led by marine biologist Dr. Michael Poole and his research team. You`ll watch for these magnificent creatures and learn all about them in the process. You`ll also stop for a relaxing snorkeling...

Visit Tiki Village and experience life in a traditional Tahitian village. You`ll see the making of heis (flower crowns) and watch the artistry of tattooing, carving and pareo painting. After the tour, you`ll enjoy a traditional dinner and dance show....

Tour the island of Moorea at your own leisure in a rental car from Avis Pacificar. You can discover secluded beaches, visit the island`s villages, and enjoy the view from Belvedere Lookout. (price per car, not per person)...

Let the kids enjoy a 30-minute encounter with dolphins at the Moorea Dolphin Center. They`ll get to touch and play with the dolphins in shallow water and learn more about these amazing creatures from knowledgeable trainers. Children ages 3-7 must be accompanied...

Embark on a unique snorkeling adventure with Moorea Mahana Tours. As you journey by boat through the lagoon, your guide will tell you stories about Cook`s and Opunohu Bays. You`ll stop at a secluded motu and enjoy a complimentary picnic lunch, snorkeling,...

Enjoy 18 holes of golf on a championship course created by the design company of legendary golfer Jack Nicklaus. The Moorea Green Pearl is a challenge for the professional and an inspiration to the amateur. It offers lush grass islands, carefully crafted...

Journey through Moorea and Opunohu Bay on an ATV. You`ll ride to Belvedere Viewpoint and the Agricultural College at Opunohu where you`ll discover a variety of tropical plants native to Polynesia. You`ll also stop near the river where you can go swimming...

Enjoy a 30-minute encounter with dolphins at the Moorea Dolphin Center. You`ll get to touch and play with the dolphins in shallow water and learn more about these amazing creatures from their knowledgeable trainers....

Experience an unforgettable encounter with dolphins at the Moorea Dolphin Center. The trainers will share their knowledge of these creatures as you interact in shallow and deep water with them. You`ll get to touch, hug, and even kiss the dolphins. This...

Experience an unforgettable encounter with dolphins at the Moorea Dolphin Center. After a brief presentation by the staff, the dolphin will entertain you with jumps and flips. You`ll get to swim with this incredible creature and even be towed through...

Freefall into one of the most incredible experiences imaginable. Skydive over the beautiful island of Moorea and enjoy breathtaking views of the gorgeous natural landscape. You`ll jump from a minimum height of 10,000 feet, securely harnessed to your personal...

Bring the family and experience an unforgettable encounter with dolphins at the Moorea Dolphin Center. The trainer will introduce your children to the dolphins and teach them about these amazing creatures. Children must be between 3 and 5 years old....